Essay Questions
Chapters 22-25
American History 202

1.     Beginning with a clear definition of the Progressive Era, trace the events and changes
brought about during that period.  Who were some of the contributors, and what were their contributions?  What legacy, if any, did the Progressive Era leave?  An explanation of all levels of involvement from the federal government to the private individual is required for the successful answer to this question.

2.    In afterthought, the Great Depression was inevitable.  President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s efforts to navigate this country through those years increasingly converted this nation into that of a welfare state.  Beginning with the Great Depression, please explain that occurrence, keeping in mind the causes and the ensuing effects of a reckless economy.  Continue with an explanation of Roosevelt’s efforts to pull this nation out of Depression with his New Deal programs.   In closing, summarize the legacy of the Roosevelt administration as it sought to improve the plight of Americans affected by the Great Depression.

The above questions require essay responses that substantiate your argument with facts – as many facts as you can apply, and yet remain relevant to the question.  Do not forget who, what, when where, why, and how as you construct your answers.  One of these questions will appear on your exam.